Dutch Eurovision contestant Joost Klein disqualified after backstage incident
Dutch contestant Joost Klein has been disqualified from the Eurovision Song Contest.
On Friday evening (10 May) it was reported that Klein was under investigation by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) over an alleged incident, which saw him miss the show's dress rehearsal.
While he had taken part in the parade at the beginning of the rehearsal, Klein did not arrive on stage to perform his track, 'Europapa', 30 minutes later.
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Now, it has been confirmed that the 26-year-old will not perform at the Eurovision Song Contest final tonight (11 May), which is being held in Malmö, Sweden.
A statement from the EBU said: “The Dutch artist Joost Klein will not be competing in the Grand Final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
“Swedish police have investigated a complaint made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following his performance in Thursday night’s Semi Final.
“While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest.
“We would like to make it clear that, contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, this incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member.
“We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the Contest.
“In light of this, Joost Klein’s behaviour towards a team member is deemed in breach of Contest rules.
“The Grand Final of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest will now proceed with 25 participating songs.”
A spokeswoman for the Swedish Police Authority said in a statement to PA news agency: “A man is suspected of unlawful threats. The crime is said to have been committed at Malmö Arena on Thursday evening.
“The man is questioned by the police but not detained. The plaintiff is an employee at Eurovision.
“The police have taken all essential investigative measures and questioned the suspect, plaintiff and witnesses. The investigation has been completed by the police.
“The case follows the normal legal process. The police have used faster prosecution and the case will now go to the prosecutor within a few weeks.”
There are now 25 countries set to compete for first place in tonight's Eurovision final, which will be broadcast tonight from 8pm on BBC One.
LADbible has reached out to Dutch broadcaster, Avrotros, for comment.
Topics: Eurovision, News, Music
Lucy Devine